Untitled, No. 12a 1957

Forrest Bess's "Untitled, No. 12a" (1957) is a striking example of Abstract Expressionism, showcasing the artist's unique approach to color and form. The canvas is dominated by a stark contrast between a dark, almost black background and two white rectangles, with a vibrant, fleshy shape intruding into the right rectangle. The fleshy form, painted in shades of red, pink, and gold, evokes both biological and visceral sensations, suggesting a complex interplay between the physical and the spiritual. Bess's work is often characterized by its introspective nature and its exploration of personal, even intimate themes.